Coming Together
A Monroe Celebration at Wintergreen
Chaired by Shelia and Craig Schwartz
A Different Kind of Celebration
For the first time, we’re creating space to reconnect, to reflect & celebrate where we’ve been, where we’re going and what becomes possible when this community gathers.
Coming Together is exactly what it sounds like: a coming together of people who share a connection to the Institute and to one another—through programs, professional work, research, exploration and support across decades.
It’s a space to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new ones and spend meaningful time together in a setting that invites presence, new & old connections and reflection.
Why a Celebration - Why Now
For many years, the idea of a formal gathering never quite fit the Monroe community. The work has always been experiential, inward and deeply personal.
But something has shifted.
More people are asking to meet again—outside of programs, outside of roles, outside of screens. More threads are crossing between professionals, explorers, supporters, and longtime friends of the Institute.
Coming Together is our response to that moment. Not a departure from who we are—but a reflection of how the community has grown.
The Setting
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Wintergreen Resort offers a natural, grounding environment that mirrors the spirit of this gathering.
Mountain air. Expansive views. Space to walk, breathe and connect—both in conversation and in quiet moments.
This is a place designed for reflection as much as reunion.
The Experience
Coming Together begins Thursday evening and unfolds over Friday and Saturday, offering depth without urgency and connection without overload.
Ways to Participate:
The Full Experience
(The Explorer Ticket)
This is designed as an immersive experience including access to every moment in the full arc of the weekend Thursday–Saturday.
$500
Table & Sponsorship Opportunities
For those who wish to gather others or support Monroe’s mission at a higher level.
- Sponsored Tables — Host friends, colleagues, or community members at the Dinner and join the extended programing. ($6,000)
- Event Sponsorship — Elevated visibility, recognition, and deeper partnership in advancing Monroe’s work. ($5,000–$40,000)
The full experience is open to all attendees, with optional table and sponsorship opportunities for those who would like to support the gathering.
The Full Experience Weekend Flow
Every Moment Designed for Meaningful Connection
Thursday, October 29, 2026
Friday, October 30, 2026
Saturday, October 31, 2026
Featured Speakers
Visionaries, researchers, and pioneers exploring the frontiers of consciousness.
Christopher Bledsoe
Author & Consciousness Experiencer
Christopher Bledsoe is a North Carolina–based author, speaker, and widely known experiencer whose life changed following encounters with unexplained phenomena. He is the author of the bestselling book UFO of GOD, which explores his experiences and the spiritual transformation that followed.
Central to his work is an ongoing exploration of the connection between these phenomena and human consciousness. As a Monroe Institute alumnus, Chris has deepened his understanding of altered states and awareness beyond the physical, bringing a unique perspective to the intersection of experience, spirituality, and the unknown.
At the Coming Together Event, he invites participants to explore new possibilities around consciousness, contact, and the nature of reality.
Dr. East Phillips
Transformational Coach & Author
Dr. East Phillips, DAOM, is an author, speaker, transformational coach, and Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine with more than 25 years of experience in personal growth, mind-body-spirit wellness, and consciousness exploration. A Reiki Master, certified yoga teacher, medical intuitive, and founder of Illuminis Publishing, she helps individuals align with their purpose and highest potential.
As a Monroe Institute Outreach Trainer candidate, Dr. East explores practical ways to raise and sustain personal frequency, expand awareness, and deepen conscious connection
At the Coming Together event, she will share tools for personal transformation, elevated awareness, and purposeful living.
Chris Ramsay
Magician & Consciousness Explorer
Chris Ramsay is an internationally recognized magician with over two decades of experience exploring the limits of perception through skill, psychology, and illusion. With a global following of millions, he creates moments where reality feels fluid and the impossible becomes tangible.
He is the creator and host of Area52, where he explores firsthand accounts of UFO and unexplained phenomena through interviews and storytelling, connecting patterns and expanding conversations around disclosure.
A Monroe alumnus, Chris integrates his exploration of consciousness and out-of-body experiences into both his work and worldview. At our Coming Together event, he will guide participants into deeper questions of perception, awareness, and the nature of reality.
Ryan Bledsoe
Host of Bledsoe Podcast & monroe institute Outreach Trainer
Ryan Bledsoe is a podcast host, speaker, and consciousness explorer whose lifelong experiences with extraordinary phenomena have inspired a deep exploration of spirituality, human potential, and the nature of reality. As host of the Bledsoe Said So podcast and a Monroe Institute alumnus, Ryan brings together conversations on consciousness, world religions, and unexplained phenomena with an open-minded and thoughtful perspective.
At the Coming Together event, Ryan invites participants to explore the relationship between consciousness, spirituality, and the extraordinary possibilities that emerge when we remain open to the mysteries of the universe.
Amy Westmoreland
Manifestation Teacher & Speaker
Amy Westmoreland is a manifestation teacher, professional speaker, and founder of Illuminating Joy. With over 33 years of personal practice and 25 years of experience working with thousands of individuals worldwide, she teaches manifestation as a practical and learnable skill rooted in conscious awareness and intentional living.
Known for her grounded and experiential approach, Amy blends energetic understanding with real-world tools through her signature four-step formula.
At the Coming Together event, Amy invites participants to explore the connection between intention, awareness, and the creative power of consciousness.
jordan crowder
podcast host of conscious observers
Jordan Crowder is a consciousness researcher, entrepreneur, author, speaker, and host of the award-winning Conscious Observers podcast. Following a life-changing near-death experience, he dedicated his work to exploring consciousness, human potential, and the intersection of science, spirituality, and technology.
Trained at the Monroe Institute, Jordan is the creator of the Law of Probability, a framework for conscious creation. Through his speaking, community, and technology ventures, he helps individuals cultivate greater awareness, reconnect with their purpose, and intentionally shape the direction of their lives.
Michael Phillip
Founder, host of the Third Eye Drops podcast
Michael Phillip is a writer, speaker, and host of the acclaimed Third Eye Drops podcast, where he explores consciousness, spirituality, philosophy, psychology, and the mysteries of human experience. Through thought-provoking conversations with scientists, mystics, artists, and spiritual teachers, he invites listeners to question assumptions and embrace curiosity.
At the Coming Together event, Michael brings his gift for meaningful dialogue and open inquiry, encouraging participants to explore consciousness through wonder, reflection, and the shared pursuit of deeper understanding.
Sean Webb
Author & Consciousness Researcher
Sean Webb is an author and speaker specializing in how the human mind works, with over 20 years of experience exploring thought, emotion, and consciousness. He is the author of Mind Hacking Happiness and has developed models used in artificial emotional intelligence and emotional resilience.
As a Monroe Institute alumnus, Sean integrates his exploration of consciousness and altered states into a practical, systems-based approach to understanding the mind.
At the Coming Together Event, he helps participants commune with divine entities, while accessing greater clarity, awareness, and intentional living.
Sarah Owen
Longevity & Consciousness Advocate
Sarah Owen is an entrepreneur, strategist, and advocate for reimagining aging, longevity, and human potential. Drawing on decades of experience helping innovators bring transformative ideas to market, she now focuses on exploring how consciousness-based approaches can support cognitive wellness, resilience, and quality of life.
Through her involvement with the Mind Pod at Collaboratory in Orlando, Sarah is helping explore the application of Monroe Sound Science® technologies as tools for supporting awareness, cognitive health, and holistic well-being.
At the Coming Together event, Sarah invites participants to consider new possibilities for aging with greater vitality, purpose, and consciousness.
Christin Collins
inspiring author, health and wellness coach
Christin Collins is the Director of Transformational Impact at the Monroe Institute, where she leads strategic partnerships, philanthropic initiatives, and community engagement to help expand Monroe's global mission of exploring human consciousness. An author, speaker, and transformational guide, Christin is passionate about creating opportunities for more people to experience Monroe's life-changing work.
At the Coming Together event, Christin will serve as moderator and Gala host, guiding meaningful conversations while leading an evening of gratitude and giving in support of the Monroe Institute's mission to expand the exploration of human consciousness.
Allyn Evans
Chief Executive Officer of the Monroe Institute
Allyn Evans is the Chief Executive Officer of the Monroe Institute, where she leads the organization's global mission to advance the exploration of human consciousness through education, research, and transformative experiences. A Monroe trainer for more than a decade, she has helped shape the Institute's programs, Community Groups, Outreach Trainer network, and the Expand meditation app.
At the Coming Together event, Allyn welcomes participants on behalf of the Monroe Institute, celebrating the community that has gathered while sharing Monroe's vision for the future of consciousness exploration and human transformation.
Luigi Sciambarella
Monroe Institute Trainer & Board Member
Luigi Sciambarella is a consciousness explorer, psychologist, and Residential Trainer with the Monroe Institute whose lifelong journey into expanded states of awareness began through spontaneous out-of-body experiences and lucid dreams. Today, he serves as a Residential Trainer, Outreach Trainer, UK Local Chapter Representative, and Professional Division Member, helping others explore consciousness through Monroe's technologies and ongoing research.
At the Coming Together event, Luigi brings decades of firsthand experience in consciousness exploration, fostering meaningful dialogue and inspiring participants to discover the extraordinary potential of expanded awareness.
Accommodations at Wintergreen
Make the most of your mountain weekend by staying on property at Wintergreen Resort.
A variety of accommodations are available, including cozy studios, spacious condos, and private homes. You can explore the different options on Wintergreen’s booking page to find the setting that best fits your stay.
To receive the Special Coming together event rate, please call Wintergreen's designated toll-free number specifically for Coming Together at (855) 326-4932 and mention our event.
Please note that a two-night minimum stay is required and that the discounted rate is available by phone only and cannot be booked online.
We encourage you to book early, as accommodations are limited and October is a beautiful and popular time to visit the mountain!
Additional
Exploration
Extend your stay at Wintergreen and take full advantage of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains in autumn!
Enjoy scenic chairlift rides and sweeping views of fall foliage, explore miles of hiking trails, or relax with a spa treatment at the Spa at Wintergreen.
Active guests can play golf or tennis and adventurers can check out the Discovery Ridge Adventure Center. For a taste of the region, take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or explore the local Nelson 151 “Brew Ridge” trail. There are countless ways to soak in the beauty and charm of the Blue Ridge Mountains at the peak of fall in Virginia!
Fall Adventures & Scenic Experiences
Active &
Outdoor Fun
Relax &
Rejuvenate
Family &
Local Activities
Beyond the Resort (Short Local Trips)
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about the summit
How can I book a room?
To receive the special event rate for Coming Together, please call Wintergreen Resort’s designated toll-free number at (855) 326-4932 and mention our event.
You can explore the available studios, condos, and houses on their booking page to see the different accommodation options. Please note that the discounted event rate is only available by calling the toll-free number — it cannot be booked online.
A two-night minimum stay is required.
Is transportation from the CHO airport provided?
No, transportation from Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO) is not provided. Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the resort.
What dining options are available at Wintergreen?
Wintergreen offers a variety of on-site dining experiences, from elevated mountain dining to casual cafés and lounges. Guests can enjoy seasonal menus, locally inspired cuisine, craft cocktails, and relaxed gathering spaces throughout the resort. Whether you're looking for a special dinner with friends, a cozy breakfast, or a quick bite between activities, there are multiple options available without leaving the mountain. Find more information here: https://www.wintergreenresort.com/dining-overview
Will I need to bring a yoga mat?
Yes! We encourage you to bring your own yoga mat. However, if traveling with one isn’t possible, you’re welcome to simply feel the grass beneath your feet and practice without one.
What should I wear for the Celebratory Dinner?
Think mountain chic — polished, expressive and comfortable. We invite you to wear what makes you feel confident and fabulous while still honoring the specialness of the evening.
Tuxedos and formal gowns aren’t necessary, but this isn’t a jeans-and-sneakers kind of night either. Think cocktail attire or creative evening style. Layers are encouraged as mountain evenings can be cool.
In true Monroe spirit, come as your most authentic (and slightly dressed-up) self.